escapement

noun

es·​cape·​ment i-ˈskāp-mənt 

1

a

: a device in a timepiece which controls the motion of the train of wheelwork and through which the energy of the power source is delivered to the pendulum or balance by means of impulses that permit a tooth to escape from a pallet at regular intervals

b

: a ratchet device (such as the spacing mechanism of a typewriter) that permits motion in one direction only in equal steps

2

a

: the act of escaping

b

: a way of escape : vent

Illustration of escapement

• escapement 1a

Examples of escapement in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Patek added a loupe to the sapphire crystal caseback to allow the wearer to appreciate the advanced escapement. —Thomas Wojtowicz, Forbes, 19 Sep. 2024

The movement has twin barrels and an efficient dual impulse escapement to provide 80 hours of power reserve, twice what was possible in 1967 even with a high-torque mainspring. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 4 Sep. 2024

Spring Drive is a wonderful technology unique to Grand Seiko, using mechanical winding to store electricity that drives electromagnetism to control the speed of the escapement. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 1 Aug. 2024

Omega has truly sorted out its Speedmaster bracelets, and the Co-Axial escapement inside the caliber 3861 movement is among the many high-tech features on view through the crystal caseback. —Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 16 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1779, in the meaning defined at sense 1a